Electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia have soared to unprecedented levels, driven by advancements in charging infrastructure and the introduction of high-quality, affordable models from Chinese automakers. According to the latest industry report, Australians purchased 72,758 EVs in the first half of 2025, marking a 24.4% increase from the same period last year. EVs now represent 12.1% of all new car sales, with Chinese brands dominating the market. The State of EVs 2025 report, released by Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council, highlights that June 2025 set a new monthly record, with EVs accounting for nearly 16% of new vehicle sales. The national EV fleet has more than doubled in two years, reaching over 410,000 vehicles. This growth is attributed to significant investments in charging infrastructure and the implementation of new vehicle efficiency standards. The report notes that there are now 153 EV models available in Australia, up from 123 in June 2024, alongside a 20% increase in fast-charging locations and a 22% rise in high-power public charging plugs. Aman Gaur, head of legal, policy, and advocacy at the Electric Vehicle Council, emphasized that Chinese automakers are playing a pivotal role in this transformation by offering affordable, high-quality EVs with diverse features. Despite the sector’s rapid growth, EVs still constitute only 2% of all cars on Australian roads. The Australian Automotive Dealer Association echoed these sentiments, noting that Chinese brands account for 77.5% of all battery-electric vehicle sales in 2025. However, challenges such as brand competition and the need for expanded service infrastructure remain. Australian consumers, like accountant Shawn Williams, are increasingly opting for Chinese EVs due to their competitive pricing and utility, especially in light of rising household costs.
